When viewing stained brain tissues under a microscope, the cells look like a network. This network structure in the brain is referred to as a nerve net.

Nerve net

States that individual cells transmit signals throughout the nerve system and that function was not continuous (opposing the beliefs held by nerve net theory)

Neuron doctrine 

The (metabolic) center of a neuron. It is in charge of keeping the cell alive

Cell body

Structures that branch out from the cell body. They receive signals from other cells. The receptors of the neuron.

Dendrites

(usually) Long processes that send signals to other neurons. The transmitters of the neuron.

Axons (nerve fibers)

Neurons are connected to a specific set of other neurons (not all neurons are connected with one another). When sets of connections are paired together, they form neural circuits.

Neural circuits

There exist specialized neurons that pick up information from the environment such as neurons in the eyes, ears and skin. They have a specialized receptor in place of the cell body and dendrites. 

Receptors

A lot of what someone experiences is not based on direct stimuli, rather representations in the nervous system

Principle of Neural representation

- mirror neurons 
- sensory neurons
- motor neurons 
- interneurons 

Types of neurons 

https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/apoptosis

Apoptosis

Apoptosis is referred to as programmed cell death that can be used to eliminate unwanted cells. It plays a significant factor in preventing cancer or during development, for example, however it can have negative impact as well, especially regarding neurodegenerative diseases.

Groups of neuron structures that work together in the brain. Supports the idea that the brain works like a symphony - different areas work together to create various cognitions.

Neural networks ( neuroscience )

A hypothetical toxin is introduced into an organism's system. This toxin's only effect is to prevent neurons from communicating with one another, but it does not kill them or affect any other type of cell. Based on the primary function of neurons, what would be the most immediate and comprehensive outcome for the organism?

Functioning as the central building blocks and core information processors of the nervous system, neurons are interconnected cells essential for all tasks the system performs. The human brain contains around 100 billion neurons at birth. Their role encompasses everything from simple reflexes to complex cognitive functions.

Google

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

- Levels of analysis
- Neurons
- Brain
- Learning and Memory
- Attention and Higher Cognition
- Language and Lateralization

Focuses of cognitive neuroscience

- Brain
- Neurons
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
- Neurological diseases
- Central nervous system (CNS)

Focuses of neuroscience (neurobiology) 

The nervous system is comprised of two primary cell types: neurons and glial cells. Neurons act as the main information processors, and the communication between them is essential for all nervous system functions. Glial cells, or glia, primarily serve in supporting roles for the neurons.

Cells of the Nervous System

Goldstein, E. B. (2014). Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research and everyday experience. Nelson Education.


Cognitive psychology: Connecting mind, research and everyday experience

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Topics can be studied from many perspectives, which can all yield their own respective insight into the bigger picture (each can contribute a new "dimension" of understanding).

Levels of analysis

Neurons

The expanded, front section of the central nervous system located within the skull. It is an incredibly intricate organ made up of billions of interconnected neurons and glial cells. The brain is a bilateral structure, meaning it has two sides, and can be divided into distinct lobes. Each lobe is linked to specific functions, but all parts of the brain work together to underpin our thoughts and behaviors.

Brain

- Functional perspecitves on learning and memory
- Brain regions for Nondeclarative memory
- Neural mechanisms of memory storage
- How Learning and Memory changes with Age 
- Consolidation of Memories

Learning and Memory

Language is a highly specialized form of communication. Most language is lateralized in the left hemisphere of the brain, while the right side deals with spatial cognition.

Language and Lateralization

Attention is the process by which we select or focus on specific stimuli for better processing and analysis.

Attention and Higher Cognition

- Functional perspectives on learning and memory
- Brain regions for Nondeclarative memory
- Neural mechanisms of memory storage
- How Learning and Memory changes with Age

Nervous system diseases affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves. These include structural, biochemical and electrical damages. Below are a few lists of diseases covered in 1Cademy:
- Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS)
- Encephalopathy
- Anosmia
- Seizures
- Stroke
- Paralysis
- Ageusia

Neurological Diseases

The peripheral nervous system are all nerve components (nerve, ganglia) outside of the brain and spinal cord. The word "peripheral" describes its function in connecting limbs and organs to the central nervous system. It is functionally divided into two components:
- somatic nervous system
- autonomic nervous system

Peripheral Nervous System

The central nervous system consists mainly of the brain and spinal cord.  Messages are relayed between the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Central Nervous System

Neurological Disorders

It is important to understand how electrical signals move through a neuron and onto the next neuron in order to facilitate communication.

Neuronal Communication 

There are different types of neurotransmitters with different functions in the human body. Some of the major neurotransmitters include:
- Serotonin (Mood & sleep)
- Glutamate (Memory & learning)
- Dopamine (Mood, sleep, & learning)
- Acetylcholine (Muscle action & memory)
- Beta-endorphin (Pain & pleasure)
- Gamma-aminobutyric acide (Brain function & sleep)
- Norepinephrine (Heart, intestines, & alertness)

Major Neurotransmitters

Psychologists have gained much of their understanding regarding the functions of neurotransmitters by researching how various drugs affect individuals with psychological disorders.

Neurotransmitters and Drugs

Glial cells, or glia, are a primary cell type in the nervous system that provides crucial physical and metabolic support to neurons. Their functions include creating a structural scaffold for the nervous system, insulating neurons, helping neurons align to facilitate communication, transporting nutrients and waste, and mediating immune responses.

Glial Cells

Based on the fundamental roles of the two primary cell types in the nervous system, which type of cell is most likely malfunctioning in this patient's condition, and why?

Learn Before

Related

Learn After